The cricket world is in mourning following the untimely death of 17-year-old Vonde Bowers, a rising star in the national under-19 cricket team. Bowers, a student at Ottos Comprehensive School, tragically lost his life after being fatally stabbed in Gray’s Farm on July 29. He was discovered by passersby and rushed to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he succumbed to multiple stab wounds. Today, his funeral is being held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church on Valley Road, St John’s, with burial to follow. The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a player who had shown immense potential and dedication to the sport. Bowers’ death has sparked widespread grief and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect young people. Hundreds gathered last month for a candlelight vigil in Gray’s Farm, where he was remembered for his exceptional talent, kind nature, and passion for cricket. Police have since charged a 16-year-old from Hatton with his murder. This tragic incident has left the community grappling with the loss of a young life full of promise and has highlighted the urgent need for addressing youth violence.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Cabinet Briefed on Arrival of New Liebherr Mobile Harbour Crane
The Honorable Attorney General recently updated the Cabinet on his visit to the St. John’s Port, where he witnessed the arrival of a cutting-edge Liebherr LHM 420 mobile harbor crane. This $6.2 million investment by the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority is a pivotal move in the nation’s strategy to establish itself as a premier logistics hub in the Eastern Caribbean. The crane, renowned for its advanced control systems and rapid cycle times, is expected to handle up to 60 containers per hour, setting a new regional benchmark for efficiency. This technological leap is anticipated to significantly enhance cargo handling and trans-shipment operations, reducing turnaround times and bolstering the port’s competitiveness. The project is already in motion, with 18 components of the crane successfully off-loaded. A team of German engineers is on-site to oversee the reassembly, while local operators undergo hands-on training to ensure seamless operations. This initiative is projected to attract additional business, stimulate national revenue growth, and create new job opportunities, marking a transformative chapter for Antigua and Barbuda’s maritime sector.
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Cabinet approves establishment of a Select Committee regarding concerns of Airport Taxi Association
In a recent Cabinet meeting, the Hon. Acting Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda provided an update on discussions with the Airport Taxi Association, tour operators, destination management companies, and the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board. The focus of the meeting was on improving operating rights and service standards at V.C. Bird International Airport. To address these concerns, Cabinet has approved the formation of a Select Committee tasked with examining the issues and proposing actionable recommendations. The Committee aims to support taxi operators and related stakeholders in adopting effective regulations and innovative service practices to enhance passenger experience. The findings and recommendations of the Committee are expected to be presented to Cabinet next week. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving transportation services and ensuring a seamless experience for travelers.
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Cabinet to receive recommendations on motorised bicycles and scooters in light of accidents
In response to escalating public safety concerns, the Minister responsible for Public Safety recently convened a high-level meeting with the Police High Command, the Ministry of Legal Affairs’ drafting team, and other key stakeholders. The focus of the discussion was the growing issues associated with motorised bicycles and scooters, which have been linked to increased traffic accidents and disruptions. Police reports highlight a significant rise in incidents involving these vehicles, prompting urgent action. The stakeholders are now tasked with developing comprehensive recommendations, which may include legislative measures, to address these challenges. The Minister will present these proposed actions to the Cabinet for further deliberation and approval. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety and ensuring smoother traffic flow. Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to stay informed about potential regulatory changes and safety guidelines.
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Cabinet approves prisoners to assist in beautification efforts
In a significant move toward national beautification, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has endorsed a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s natural aesthetics and fostering community engagement. Last week, the Minister for Works received commendation for spearheading efforts to plant trees along highways, a project designed to enrich the visual appeal of the nation’s roadways. Building on this momentum, the Ministry of Works and Urban Renewal has been encouraged to expand its greening initiatives, ensuring a cleaner and more picturesque environment for all citizens. In a groundbreaking decision, Cabinet approved the formation of a supervised inmate work team to contribute to roadside and community beautification efforts. This initiative not only supports environmental enhancement but also provides prisoners with opportunities for rehabilitation and skill development. Additionally, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force has been tasked with leading the October National Clean-Up Campaign under the theme “Love Where You Live,” further emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering civic pride and environmental stewardship. These efforts underscore the Cabinet’s vision for a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Antigua and Barbuda, where every citizen can take pride in their surroundings.
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CABINET NOTES: WEDNESDAY 24th September 2025
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda convened on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, addressing a range of critical issues aimed at enhancing national infrastructure, public safety, and environmental sustainability. The meeting began with a prayer led by a pastor from the Zion Church of God, who drew inspiration from Psalm 31, emphasizing trust and resilience in challenging times. The pastor urged Cabinet members to remain patient and committed to their roles, likening their efforts to planting seeds that will yield future benefits. A significant highlight of the meeting was the Attorney General’s briefing on the arrival of a state-of-the-art Liebherr LHM 420 mobile harbor crane at the St. John’s Port. Costing US$6.2 million, this advanced crane is expected to revolutionize port operations, boosting efficiency and positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a leading logistics hub in the Eastern Caribbean. The crane, capable of handling up to 60 containers per hour, is currently being assembled by a team of German engineers, with local operators undergoing hands-on training to ensure seamless integration. In other developments, the Acting Prime Minister informed Cabinet about discussions with the Airport Taxi Association and other stakeholders to improve service standards at V.C. Bird International Airport. A Select Committee has been established to recommend regulatory and operational enhancements. Additionally, the Minister for Public Safety addressed rising concerns over motorized bicycles and scooters, which have been linked to increased traffic accidents. Stakeholders are drafting legislative measures to mitigate these issues. On the environmental front, Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to beautification initiatives, including tree planting along highways and the establishment of a supervised inmate work team to support community clean-up efforts. The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force will lead the October National Clean-Up Campaign under the theme ‘Love Where You Live,’ furthering the government’s vision for a cleaner, greener nation.
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Emirates in talks to add Antigua to its global network
Emirates, the Dubai-based global airline, has initiated high-level discussions with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to explore the possibility of adding the Eastern Caribbean nation to its extensive international network. The talks, held on September 24, 2025, in Dubai, involved Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, alongside senior executives from the airline. Representing Antigua and Barbuda were Theon Ali, Deputy Head of Mission to the UAE, and his delegation. The discussions focused on the strategic value of Antigua and Barbuda as a gateway to the Eastern Caribbean, emphasizing its growing reputation as a tourism and business hub. The Antiguan delegation highlighted the country’s potential to enhance connectivity for travelers from the Gulf region and beyond. Both parties explored the broader implications of establishing direct air links, including fostering investment flows and strengthening ties between the Middle East and the Caribbean. Emirates expressed its interest in conducting route viability assessments, aligning with its global expansion strategy. While no specific timeline was announced, the dialogue is set to continue, with both sides committed to deepening bilateral relations. This development follows Antigua and Barbuda’s recent air services agreement with Qatar in January 2025, which granted unlimited traffic rights for passenger and cargo flights between the two nations. The potential partnership with Emirates underscores the Caribbean nation’s efforts to bolster its international connectivity and economic prospects.
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Kuwait FM meets Antigua and Barbuda’s peer in New York
Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Abdullah Al-Yahya, held a significant meeting with Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, Everly Paul Chet Greene, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The high-level discussion, which took place on Wednesday, centered on enhancing bilateral relations across multiple sectors, as confirmed by a statement from Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both ministers explored avenues for deeper cooperation and exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues of mutual interest. This diplomatic engagement underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering stronger ties and addressing global challenges collaboratively. The meeting also highlighted the importance of multilateral platforms like the UN General Assembly in facilitating dialogue and partnership between geographically distant but diplomatically aligned countries.
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UPP Town-Hall to Tackle Crime and State Fund Mismanagement
The United Progressive Party (UPP) has announced a town-hall meeting scheduled for September 30 at Freedom Hall on Lower Newgate Street in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, set to commence at 7 p.m., aims to address escalating concerns over crime and government accountability. The panel will be led by Deputy Political Leader and criminal defense attorney Hon. Sherfield Bowen, alongside financial consultant Kem Warner and former Royal Police Force member Nuffield Burnett. The UPP has emphasized that the meeting will focus on the recent surge in crime, alleged mismanagement of state funds, and the government’s perceived inadequate response to these issues. In a pre-event statement, the party expressed that citizens are increasingly frustrated with violent crime, extrajudicial killings, and a lack of transparency in public spending. The town-hall will serve as a platform for citizens to voice their grievances and propose solutions to these pressing national concerns. The event will be broadcast live on Progressive 107.3 FM and streamed via the UPP’s official Facebook page, ensuring widespread accessibility for the public.
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Swyft responds to concerns surrounding their operations in Antigua & Barbuda
In response to growing public discourse and concerns, Swyft, Antigua & Barbuda’s first taxi-hailing app, has issued a comprehensive statement reaffirming its mission to enhance mobility while respecting existing taxi services. The company emphasizes its goal to modernize the transportation sector without marginalizing traditional operators, focusing on connectivity, safety, and transparency. Swyft’s platform offers real-time ride booking, upfront fare estimates, cashless payments, and driver verification, ensuring a seamless experience for users. Since its soft launch during Carnival 2025, the app has demonstrated strong engagement, with over 300 ride requests fulfilled on its first day and drivers earning between $750 and $1,000 daily during peak periods. Swyft has proactively collaborated with the Antigua Barbuda Transport Board to align with local regulations, ensuring all drivers are licensed and compliant. The company welcomes oversight and dialogue with taxi associations and government bodies to co-develop safeguards that uphold public safety and fair competition. Swyft invites licensed operators to join its platform, offering benefits such as increased ride requests, flexible scheduling, and reduced idle time. The company commits to transparency, pledging periodic reports on rides, driver performance, and customer feedback. Swyft aims to prove that technology and tradition can coexist harmoniously, fostering innovation while respecting the established taxi industry.